Italian Pastina Soup Recipe

Italian Pastina Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s a cozy, nourishing dish that’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for when you need something warm, quick, and soothing—especially on a chilly evening or when you’re under the weather. With tender little star-shaped pasta simmered in a rich, savory broth and just a few simple ingredients, this soup is like a warm hug from an Italian nonna. It’s light but filling, simple but so flavorful, and best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes. This is the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Comforting: Ready in less than half an hour, this is the ultimate no-fuss meal when you want something cozy and delicious—fast.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up a soul-satisfying bowl of soup.
• Kid-Friendly and Nostalgic: The tiny pasta shapes are fun for kids and bring back memories for anyone who grew up with this classic Italian comfort food.
• Customizable: You can keep it as simple as you like or dress it up with extras like veggies, chicken, or even a squeeze of lemon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this feel-good favorite:

• Pastina (tiny pasta like acini di pepe or stelline): The star of the dish—these small pasta shapes cook quickly and give the soup its signature texture.
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth: The base of the soup—use a high-quality broth for the richest flavor. Homemade is amazing, but store-bought works great too.
• Butter: Just a bit adds richness and a silky finish to the broth.
• Egg: Optional but traditional—beaten into the hot soup, it adds body and nutrition.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives the soup that irresistible umami flavor. Don’t skip it!
• Salt and black pepper: To season and balance everything perfectly.
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.

Variations

Italian Pastina Soup is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few easy ways to switch things up:

• Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked turkey, or even crumbled Italian sausage.
• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the egg for a lighter version.
• Boost the veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Lemon twist: Add a splash of lemon juice and some zest at the end for a bright, refreshing variation.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone for a more indulgent texture.

How to Make Italian Pastina Soup

Step 1: Heat the Broth

Pour your broth into a pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. This is the flavor foundation, so let it warm up nicely.

Step 2: Add the Pastina

Once the broth is simmering, stir in your pastina. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the pasta is tender, usually about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Stir in the Butter and Seasonings

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in a pat of butter, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it melt into the soup.

Step 4: Add the Egg (Optional)

If you’re using the egg, beat it in a small bowl, then slowly drizzle it into the soup while stirring gently to create silky egg ribbons—like in egg drop soup.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Turn off the heat, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and top with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot and cozy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a flavorful broth: The better the broth, the better the soup. Try adding a bouillon cube or a splash of bone broth for more depth.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Tiny pastina cooks quickly, and it can get mushy if left too long. Keep an eye on it.
• Add the egg slowly: For best texture, stir the soup while adding the egg in a thin stream. This prevents clumps and creates delicate ribbons.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan doesn’t melt as well. Freshly grated cheese will give you the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Italian Pastina Soup shines on its own, but here are some tasty pairings:

Classic Style:

Serve it in a warm bowl with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few grinds of black pepper.

With Bread:

Pair with crusty Italian bread, garlic toast, or a soft dinner roll to soak up every last drop.

Light Meal Combo:

Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.

For Kids:

Serve with crackers or even some mild cheese on the side—they’ll love the tiny pasta and mild flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pastina will continue to absorb liquid and might swell a bit.

Freezing

It’s best to freeze the broth separately if you plan to make a big batch. Cook fresh pastina when ready to serve to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup. Stir well and heat through until steaming.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or alphabet pasta will work. Just adjust the cooking time based on the shape you choose.

Is this soup good for when you’re sick?
Absolutely. It’s easy on the stomach, hydrating, and packed with gentle, soothing flavors—perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Simply skip the butter and cheese or use dairy-free alternatives. The soup will still be warm and comforting without them.

What can I do if my soup gets too thick?
Just add more broth or a splash of water when reheating to thin it out. The pastina continues to absorb liquid as it sits.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pastina Soup is one of those timeless recipes that brings instant comfort and joy. It’s quick, simple, and packed with nostalgic flavor—perfect for busy weeknights, sick days, or whenever you need something warm and satisfying. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to bowl of comfort.

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